Hey there! As someone who’s lived in Sapporo for 40 years, let me share some tips on how to enjoy the city in spring. I think I can offer some insights you might not find in the typical tourist guides.
Sapporo is famous for its winter snowscapes, but spring, when the snow melts and fresh greenery starts to appear, is actually a really charming season too. Unlike the sudden burst of cherry blossoms on Japan’s main island, Sapporo’s spring colors emerge slowly, gradually. And honestly, that has its own special appeal.
Spring’s Arrival: The Season of Cherry Blossoms and Lilacs
First off, spring means cherry blossoms (sakura)! Sapporo’s sakura bloom a bit later than in Honshu, usually around Golden Week (late April to early May). For more details on Sapporo’s hanami (cherry blossom viewing) culture and recommended spots, I’ve covered it extensively in this Sapporo Hanami Guide article, so be sure to check it out.
- Maruyama Park: Right near Maruyama Koen Station on the Tozai subway line. This is probably Sapporo’s most popular spot for hanami. It’s also lovely to stroll through here along with the adjacent Hokkaido Shrine. You can find more details about this area in my article introducing Maruyama Park and Hokkaido Shrine. During cherry blossom season, it gets crowded with many Japanese and foreign tourists. Lots of food stalls come out, making it fun. To be honest, though, it can get really packed during peak times, and finding a spot can be a challenge. But that lively atmosphere is all part of the spring tradition here.
- Nakajima Park: Just outside Nakajima Koen Station on the Namboku subway line. Even though it’s in the city center, this park has a quiet, relaxed vibe. Cherry trees bloom around Shobu Pond, and renting a rowboat is pleasant.
After the cherry blossoms fade, it’s lilac season, usually around late May. The lilac is actually Sapporo’s official city tree.
- Odori Park: This long park stretches east-west through the heart of Sapporo, right below the TV Tower. Various flowers start to bloom here. Well, as the face of Sapporo, it’s a place you can’t miss in any season – spring, summer, autumn, or winter. Its central location makes access super easy, but if you’re looking for deep nature, it might feel a bit too urban. Still, it’s incredibly convenient to drop by and get a feel for Sapporo’s daily life and the changing seasons.
Post-Snow Activities: Park Strolls and Cycling
Once the snow is gone, outdoor activities become truly enjoyable.
- Moerenuma Park: This is an art park designed by sculptor Isamu Noguchi. Its vast grounds feature geometric hills and fountains, offering unique scenery you won’t find elsewhere. Renting a bike to explore the park is highly recommended. It’s a bit far from the city center, so you’ll need to take a bus or taxi. That’s a slight drawback, but the unique design and open space are definitely worth the trip. I introduce this unique park in more detail in this Moerenuma Park article, so give it a read if you’re interested.
- Official Website (English): Moerenuma Park Official Website
- Bike rental fees and availability can change with the season, so it’s best to check the official website before you go.
Here’s an honest take from a local: While cherry blossoms and lilacs get a lot of attention in spring, for us locals, the real joy comes from watching the park lawns turn green again after the long winter. Seeing new sprouts push up forcefully from the ground that was asleep under the snow makes you really feel, “Ah, spring is here.” I hope visitors can experience that sense of life returning, too.
Flavors of Spring
Spring brings delicious seasonal foods. Asparagus is a must-try! Hokkaido asparagus is incredibly sweet and juicy. Both green and white varieties are available, and I recommend trying both. You might also find sansai (wild mountain vegetables) served as tempura in restaurants.
Venturing Out a Bit: Jozankei Onsen
If you have time, consider a trip to Jozankei Onsen, about an hour’s bus ride from Sapporo city center. It’s a hot spring resort surrounded by lush nature, with many facilities offering day-use bathing (higaeri nyuyoku). Soaking in an onsen amidst the fresh green leaves of spring is fantastic. It might still be a bit cool on some days, but warming up in the hot springs solves that! For details on access and how to enjoy Jozankei, take a look at this Jozankei Onsen Guide article.
- Official Website (English): Welcome to Jozankei Onsen
- Bus schedules and fares can change, so please check the bus company’s website or other sources for the latest information before you travel.
Extra Tip: If You Want to Go a Bit Further, Lake Toya
If you have a bit more time for a longer excursion, heading to Lake Toya is also recommended. It’s possible as a day trip from Sapporo, but it takes a bit of time. However, as I wrote in this article about Lake Toya area highlights, the view from the Usuzan Ropeway, in particular, is truly stunning. The panoramic view overlooking Lake Toya and Showa Shinzan is worth seeing.
Spring in Sapporo: What to Wear and What to Note
Spring weather in Sapporo can be unpredictable. Days might be warm, but mornings and evenings are often chilly. Especially in April, there might still be patches of snow, and even in May, the wind can feel cold. Layering is key. A light down jacket, a fleece, or other easily removable outerwear will be very useful.
One more piece of local honesty: Golden Week (late April/early May) is a major holiday period throughout Japan. So, it’s not just tourist spots – roads, supermarkets, everything gets crowded. Flights and hotels also tend to be more expensive. If you can adjust your schedule, traveling slightly before or after this period might allow for a more relaxed Sapporo experience.
So, what do you think? Have you got a better picture of spring in Sapporo?
I hope you’ll come and enjoy a different side of Sapporo – calmer, full of life, and distinct from winter. We’re waiting for you!
